Fifty teachers have successfully completed an innovative five day training course which could transform environmental learning in Cape Town schools. They are to be honoured at a certificate ceremony at the Cape Teaching Institute in Kuils River.

Date: Saturday, 22 October 2005
Time: 08:30 (morning)
Venue: The Little Theatre, Cape Teaching Institute, Nooiensfontein Road, Kuils River

This pilot project, sponsored by the City of Cape Town, echoes the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UND-ESD). The Decade is an opportunity to integrate the principles of sustainable development into a multitude of learning disciplines.

"We believe that through this type of training we could empower educators to teach our youth how everyday decisions such as the uncontrolled use of water or emissions of hazardous gases can impact on the environment. This pilot project aims to support the implementation of environmental learning in Cape Town," says Cllr Themba Sikhutshwa, Mayoral Committee Member for Planning and Environment.

"With this sponsorship we wish to demonstrate the City's commitment to the effective management and enhancement of the unique Cape Town environment."

The pilot project will be evaluated by an independent evaluator. Should it prove successful, the Western Cape Education Department may consider funding and including it as a regular course as part of its in-service development programme at the Institute.

"We are proud to fund this unique course which could benefit all learners. This is a partnership between the City of Cape Town, the Western Cape Education Department and nine environmental organisations. As a team we can succeed in teaching people how lifestyle choices and consumption patterns impact on everyday life and the sustainability of our environment," he added.

The project involved 50 educators and curriculum advisors of the Education Department who were trained for five days in environmental learning. On completion of the course in August this year they developed and implemented practical curriculum-based environmental lessons of their choice at their respective schools. These newly developed projects are to be presented at the certificate ceremony.

All media are invited to attend.

Issued by:
Lisle Brown
Media Liaison Officer: City Of Cape Town
Tel: 021 400 3065

Communication and Marketing
City of Cape Town
Email: media@capetown.gov.za
Tel: 021 400 2201
Fax: 021 957 0023

Media Queries:
Lindie Buirski
Environmental Educator : City Of Cape Town
Tel: 021 487 2839
Cell: 084 629 9305